Holidaymakers could be forced to pay up to £15 if they drive to Heathrow Airport as part of proposals for a 'H charge'

Speaking to the Evening Standard, Sir Davis said the charge, which could be between £10 to £15, might discourage people from driving polluting vehicles to Heathrow.

It has not been confirmed yet whether taxi drivers would be exempt from the charge.

The suggestion has been backed by the likes of the chairman of the National Infrastructure Commission and Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has also claimed that a low emission zone around Heathrow is needed.

Parts of London, including Heathrow have been accused of breaching EU limits on nitrogen dioxide which is blamed on diesel vehicles which has prompted the airport to look into whether a congestion should be introduced.

News of the proposals has not been welcomed by everyone.

Airlines UK, whose members include the likes of British Airways and EasyJet have warned against the charge.

Chief executive, Tim Alderslade: "We need much more consultation on this proposal, its knock on impact on congestion elsewhere and its effect on consumers.

"This will, in effect, be another tax on air travel."

Mr Alderslade also called for much better public transport to the airport.